Software training firm Infinite Skills Inc. last week introduced its "Learning SolidWorks 2015," an introductory course teaching the essential tools for creating drawings, sketches, and beginning assembly models in the latest version of the CAD program for mechanical engineers.
SolidWorks is a 3D computer aided design (CAD) program used by 2 million engineers and designers worldwide. The program employs a parametric, feature-based assembly system for building mechanical models, allowing users to create and assemble parts into an overall design.
Infinite Skills' "Learning SolidWorks 2015" covers basic and intermediate tools, providing a basis in fundamentals and best practices for new SolidWorks users.
Author Dean Kerste is a college professor with more than a decade of experience in industrial design and more than twenty years experience as a professor of mechanical design technology. Kerste began his career as a draftsman, detailing large industrial combustion systems for power generation and transitioning them into natural gas distribution systems.
Kerste begins with an introduction to SolidWorks, including a guide to the SolidWorks interface and a look at new features in the 2015 version.
He then moves into basic sketching, explaining the sketching environment and lessons on basic sketching tools, before moving on to intermediate sketching tools such as fillets and chamfers, working with patterns, adding text, and more.
Kerste then goes in detail with SolidWorks features, demonstrating the tools for performing extrusions, revolved cuts, lofts, mirrors, and more.
Next, the course explains in detail how to begin modeling a part, beginning with the very basics of starting a model in the 3D modeling view, and covering essentials such as understanding the design tree, working with parent-child relationships, using measuring tools, and more.
Kerste then moves on to creating assemblies, explaining the assembly environment and the key tools for adding components, positioning parts, and working with assembly mates.
The course closes with in-depth training on drawing in SolidWorks, beginning with the drawing environment, drawing views and tools, and a chapter on adding annotations such as dimensions, notes, bill of materials, and more.
"SolidWorks is a 3D CAD modeling program that allows you to transform new ideas into great products," Kerste explains. "After viewing the lessons in this video, you will be proficient in the fundamentals of using SolidWorks 2015, and have the foundation to expand your knowledge of the SolidWorks software."
